About us

After more than twenty years of artistic photography in Belgium we decided in 2002 to change our busy business life for a more relaxing lifestyle. At least that’s what we thought… So it wasn’t a surprise at all that New Zealand with its vastness, peace and tranquility was for us ‘Love at first sight’…

When a Belgian tour company offered us the opportunity to work in New Zealand as professional tour escorts, it came as a ‘golden opportunity’ that gave us that full satisfaction in dealing with people from all over the world and showing them the most amazing scenery of our new country.

From then tourism and hospitality became our second nature in which we could unveil to our guests an unknown world of landscapes and tastes, far away from the crowd. On one of those journeys we discovered the secrets of Golden Bay and came to love this wonderful place in Pohara. Attached at the limestone cliffs, 70m above the beach, the Lodge now forms an ‘eagle’s nest ‘ for our photographic observations and a safe haven for us and our guests.

Here we can share our passion for photography, nature and adventure together with our guests and offer them the best of both worlds: Western style comfort and delicacies (who can resist Belgian chocolate and beer…) and the silence and beauty of our beloved Golden Bay.

We look forward meeting you and sharing your travel experiences. We assure you a warm welcome and of course lots of hospitality. Therefor don’t hesitate to come over for a chat or some professional advice. As told earlier… New Zealand is our passion, the outdoors our second home…

The Idea

Our lodge was purpose built in 2003 in a modern style and architecturally designed for your comfort and privacy by the famous Nelson architect Richard Carver. After 17 years of hard work in gardening and interior redesign, our home is now the romantic house we dreamed of for years… We enjoy sharing our place with guests from all around the world. So feel welcome and free to wonder around and discover all the little secrets of our place…

Your Guest Suite offers a 180 degree view over Golden Bay and the Millennium Reserve with up-to-date facilities, high quality furnishings and tasteful decorations collected from all over New Zealand. Where we can we like to buy artwork from local artists in Golden Bay.

The limited number of guests assures you of personal attention and a cozy atmosphere. The beautiful coastal garden links our Lodge with the nearby Tasman Sea and makes it the place to relax and unwind in a wonderful environment of sandy beaches and impressive limestone formations. You can luxuriate in our under-the-stars spa & swimming pool or laze on your private deck to soak up memorable sunsets. It’s our aim to offer our guests an unforgettable stay and a taste of the fantastic Golden Bay lifestyle!